Vahiguru ji ka Khalsa, Vahiguru ji ki Fatih!
Entering the ethereal realm of Vadahans Dakhni, a musical mode resonating with life's rhythms, evokes the sensation of embarking on a profound journey through the intricate fabric of existence. Named after the majestic swan, Vadahans embodies the essence of the self and the spirit within, juxtaposed with the ostentatious crane, a symbol of pretense.
In the Guru Granth Sahib, the swan's analogy signifies serenity amidst turbulent waters, urging us to embrace the tranquility within. As we delve into this revered composition, we explore our capacity to embody the swan's grace and delve deeper into the rich fabric of folk traditions.
Alahania, the melancholic melodies sung in mourning, poignantly remind us of life's transient nature. Joy and sorrow intertwine through the harmonious fusion of Dakhni and Vadahans, reflecting the deep interconnectedness of all things.
Guru Nanak Sahib describes the Creator, IkOankar (One Creative and Pervasive Force, the One), and creation. The Guru says, true is the Creator. Only the Creator should be known as true. True is the Nurturer. True is that imperceivable and limitless Creator, Who by Own-Self has created Own-Self. The Creator orchestrates the symphony of existence, nurturing every facet of creation with boundless love and compassion.
Delving deeper into the mystery of creation, Guru Nanak Sahib employs the metaphor of grindstones, symbolizing the perpetual cycle of unity and separation. As wheat is ground into flour between the millstones, creation experiences the ebb and flow of merging and diverging forces. This sacred interplay of unity and separation mirrors the divine play of the Creator, a reminder of the interconnectedness woven into the intricate web of existence.
Guru Nanak Sahib emphasizes that without Wisdom-Guru, there is pitch darkness: That the Creator has created the sun and moon. Day and night, the Creator contemplates this play. In Indic philosophy, the sun and the moon are important in understanding the mind and intellect, the lineages and gods, and the spaces they occupy.
In a testament to the incredibleness of creation and the Creator, Guru Nanak Sahib concludes with a simple yet profound truth: You are the true Master. You are true. You bestow true love. This poignant declaration does not mention understanding; the Guru directs our focus to love. It is a humble plea for divine love amidst the complexity of existence—a reminder that love is the ultimate essence we seek in the grand mosaic of creation.
May we embrace the simplicity of love amidst life's complexity, reframing our understanding of existence, and operate from a place of devotion.
May we do so with grace and humility.
May Wisdom-Guru guide us!
Harinder Singh is the Co-Founder & Innovation Director at SikhRI. He appears on radio and television programs and speaks at universities, parliaments, museums, conferences, and civic institutions.
Sidaker, Kabir Singh, speaks with Sidak Facilitator, Jasleen Kaur about the realizations that came about as a result of attending Sidak. A lot of his fears around questioning his faith and comparing himself to his peers were alleviated.
In this series, Sabads previously transcreated for the Sabad of the Week podcast will be revisited, with the offering of an individual understanding and perspective on the application of the Sabad’s message in daily life.
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